Health department awaits 'instant' dengue test kits

Thursday, February 23, 2012

THE Department of Health (DOH) welcomed Wednesday the report of a dengue testing kit being developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the University of the Philippines (UP) that will give faster results for suspected cases.

In a phone interview, DOH–National Epidemiology Center (NEC) head Dr. Eric Tayag said the health department is keenly awaiting for the commercial launching of the isothermal technology called Biotek-M.

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"It will definitely be a big help to our patients," said Tayag, who is also an assistant secretary of the DOH.

He noted how the Biotek-M will shell out faster results since it can be known in just one hour.

Under the current system using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, needs a few days before it can come out with the results aside from the fact that it cannot be administered within the first five days of fever.

Also, the Biotek-M is touted to be cheaper than the PCR test, which could cost around P7,000 to P8,000.

The health official noted that the state-funded device is being pegged at around P3,000 to P5,000.

"Since gawa na ito ng gobyerno (Since it is made by government), it will be available cheaper," Tayag said.

Biotek-M is currently being tested at the Rizal Medical Center, the National Children’s Hospital and the Philippine Children's Medical Center, said Tayag.

Since January 1 to February 4, DOH records show that there are 1,753 dengue cases including 50 deaths. The National Capital Region again holds the highest number of cases with 118. (AMN/Sunnex)